Q: Can the Hill be used strategically?
A: It is a complicating factor, and that is something worthwhile in itself. It provides interest. Runners should definitely conserve energy first time up (at only 8km) but at 35km they can choose to gamble. The rise at that point offers them an opportunity to break away from the rest

Q: Which runner has best altered the whole complexion of the race on the Hill?
A: Hendrick Ramaala did this (on the return journey) in the very first race (and that was when the hill was run a total of four times, on a 2-lap course). Even since then, though no-one has actually broken away at that point, it has still offered an indicator - the runner with greater strength first reveals himself or herself at this point - although they may save their final effort for later.

Q: What is the best strategy to be employed by amateurs / first-timers on the Hill?
A: Slow down _ bend forward, take shorter strides and simply try to get up this hill with least effort. Save energy - even at 35km, and use it in the final few kilometres.

Q: Does the Mumbai Hill compare to any other?
A: No _ every course is one unto itself. Others may have some similarity, but nothing exact. Hendrick Ramaala said that he came to Mumbai to rehearse the Olympic course for Athens, but these are not strictly comparable (and he did not perform well there). There are many out-back courses, but none with the same profile as Mumbai. Beyond this - the differences in courses are what gives road running its unique profile, and its popular appeal.

Q: Do course-recces help?
A: Course recce may be okay for psycholgical reasons, but for physiological conditioning simple hill training is necessary. If you can run well, you can do so on any course that may be set before you.